Hill was a huge figure in English football and at various times was a player, manager and a chairman.

But he is perhaps most famous for presenting Match of the Day, with over 600 appearances on the programme.

Jimmy Hill

His agent, Jane Morgan, said: "It is with great sadness that Bryony Hill and the children of Jimmy Hill have announced that Jimmy passed away peacefully aged 87 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. Bryony was beside him."

Stars from the world of football spoke of Hill's contribution to the game following the announcement of his death.

Current MotD presenter Gary Linker led the tributes.

He wrote on Twitter: "Deeply saddened to hear that Jimmy Hill has left us. A football man through and through who gave the game so much in so many ways #RIPJimmy."

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BBC pundit and former England striker Alan Shearer said: "Very sad news about Jimmy Hill. Footballers and football have so much to thank him for. A man who loved the game."

Tony Hall, director-general of the BBC, said: "For generations of fans Jimmy Hill was an authoritative voice as both a presenter and analyst. He was committed to innovation in every aspect of the game, including broadcasting, and always believed supporters came first. His influence lives on in the programmes we enjoy today."

Hill will be cremated at a private ceremony.

A service for his friends and colleagues will be held in the new year, Ms Morgan said.

Such sad news about Jimmy hill ,did an awful lot for our wonderful game RIP